Shah alam: Sultan of Selangor, Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah, has emphasized the importance of Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) ensuring its academic programmes remain attuned to global developments, thus equipping graduates to be competitive in the demanding job market.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Sultan Sharafuddin's royal address highlighted the significance of relevance in various fields, including digital technology, artificial intelligence, science, engineering, and more. His Royal Highness stressed that while historically the challenge was gaining university admission, the current challenge lies in ensuring graduates can excel and compete globally.

The Sultan reiterated UiTM's foundational mandate of empowering Malays and Bumiputera, urging the institution to recognize its weaknesses and strive for continuous improvement. During the UiTM Royal Address 2026, he acknowledged UiTM's success in cultivating graduates who have become influential figures at both national and international levels.

Sultan Sharafuddin urged UiTM to focus on producing job creators and economic leaders rather than mere job seekers. He emphasized the need for UiTM to foster entrepreneurs, innovators, scientists, and business owners capable of thriving on a global stage.

Strengthening UiTM's ties with industry was another focal point, with the Sultan advocating for graduates to possess the skills, confidence, and language proficiency required by employers. Encouraging students to master at least two foreign languages, he underscored the importance of enhancing competitiveness in the job market.

The Sultan also referenced the constitutional framework supporting UiTM, citing the Universiti Teknologi MARA Act 1976 and Article 153 of the Federal Constitution, which provides for the educational empowerment of Malays and Bumiputera. He emphasized that changes to UiTM's foundation should be considered within this constitutional context.

Addressing concerns about educational equity, Sultan Sharafuddin stated that defending UiTM's mandate does not infringe on the educational rights of other ethnic groups, as Malaysia offers diverse higher education opportunities for all citizens. Concluding his address, he affirmed that UiTM's founding mission remains unfulfilled as long as educational and socioeconomic disparities persist.